Theaster Gates collaborates on new Philadelphia arts complex opening
The Forman Arts Initiative (FAI) in Philadelphia recently acquired a city block in West Kensington to establish a museum and community center, with support from artist Theaster Gates and local architects Digsau and Ian Smith Design Group. The campus will open in phases over the next two years, starting with an outdoor space later this summer.
Founded in 2021 by Michael Forman and Jennifer Rice, FAI aims to support Philadelphia artists and organizations, including those in the diverse Kensington neighborhood. The campus, consisting of multiple buildings, will house FAI’s art collection and serve as an arts center and community space tailored to the neighborhood’s needs.
Inspired by Gates’s Dorchester Projects in Chicago, Forman envisions a similar transformation for West Kensington. The goal is to open the museum to the public by 2026, coinciding with the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. FAI’s focus is on stewardship rather than ownership of its art collection.
The community aspect of the project will involve input from local residents and potential collaborations with artists like Pedro Ospina and initiatives like the Clay Studio’s Claymobile. Artists like Roberto Lugo, a Kensington native, are eager for the opportunity to use art as a tool for community empowerment.
By engaging with historically marginalized voices and intentionally involving the community in decision-making, FAI hopes to create a space that fosters creativity and empowerment for all residents.
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Elara Voss, graduated from the Royal College of Art in London with a Master’s in Fine Art. She specializes in contemporary sculpture and installation art, exploring themes of nature and human interaction. Elara’s works have been featured in several group exhibitions across Europe, and she is currently working on her first solo show.